Microphone disruption apparatus and method

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for use with an electronic device having a microphone. The apparatus comprises a structure configured to detachably couple to the device, and a generator supported by the structure. The generator is configured to generate a force that acts on the microphone and renders the microphone unresponsive to voice sounds.

SUMMARY

Embodiments are directed to an apparatus for use with an electronicdevice having a microphone. The apparatus comprises a structureconfigured to detachably couple to the device, and a generator supportedby the structure. The generator is configured to generate a force thatacts on the microphone and renders the microphone unresponsive to voicesounds.

Other embodiments are directed to an apparatus for use with anelectronic device having a microphone. The apparatus comprises astructure configured to detachably couple to the device, and a generatorsupported by the structure and fluidly coupled to the microphone. Thegenerator is configured to generate air pressure that acts on adiaphragm of the microphone and renders the microphone unresponsive tovoice sounds.

Further embodiments are directed to a method involving a microphone ofan electronic device. The method involves generating, at a cover or asleeve detachably coupled to an external surface of the device, a forcethat is directed at the microphone. The method also involves renderingthe microphone unresponsive to voice sounds while the force is acting onthe microphone. The force can be air pressure, mechanical vibration oran electric force.

The above summary is not intended to describe each disclosed embodimentor every implementation of the present disclosure. The figures and thedetailed description below more particularly exemplify illustrativeembodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Throughout the specification reference is made to the appended drawings,where like reference numerals designate like elements, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a microphone disruption apparatus for usewith an electronic device having a microphone in accordance with variousembodiments;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a microphone disruption apparatus for usewith an electronic device having a multiplicity of microphones inaccordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 3 illustrates various details of a microphone disruption apparatusfor use with an electronic device having a microphone in accordance withvarious embodiments;

FIG. 4 illustrates various details of a microphone disruption apparatusfor use with an electronic device having a multiplicity of microphone inaccordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 5 illustrates a microphone disruption apparatus for use with astationary electronic device having one or more microphones inaccordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a microphone disruption apparatus thatemploys air pressure for use with an electronic device having amicrophone in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a microphone disruption apparatus thatemploys air pressure for use with an electronic device having amultiplicity of microphones in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 8 illustrates of a microphone disruption apparatus that employs airpressure for use with an electronic device having a microphone inaccordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 9 illustrates of a microphone disruption apparatus that employs airpressure for use with an electronic device having a multiplicity ofmicrophones in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 10 shows a two-piece piston of a pressure generator in accordancewith various embodiments;

FIG. 11 shows a three-piece piston of a pressure generator in accordancewith various embodiments;

FIGS. 12A-12C show different configurations of a two-piece piston of apressure generator in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 13A illustrates a plenum configured to fluidly couple a microphonedisruption apparatus to a microphone of an electronic device inaccordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 13B illustrates a manifold comprising a multiplicity of plenumsconfigured to fluidly couple a microphone disruption apparatus to amultiplicity of microphones disposed at different housing locations ofan electronic device in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a side view of a manifold comprising a multiplicity ofplenums configured to fluidly couple a microphone disruption apparatusto a multiplicity of microphones disposed on opposing major surfaces ofan electronic device in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional illustration showing a vibration isolationarrangement for a microphone disruption apparatus in accordance withvarious embodiments;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional illustration showing a vibration isolationarrangement for a microphone disruption apparatus in accordance withvarious embodiments;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional illustration showing a noise cancellationarrangement for a microphone disruption apparatus in accordance withvarious embodiments;

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing various components of a microphonedisruption apparatus in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing various components of a microphonedisruption apparatus in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 20 illustrates a microphone disruption apparatus configured toproduce an electric force that renders a microphone nonresponsive toaudio sounds in accordance with various embodiments; and

FIG. 21 illustrates a microphone disruption apparatus configured toproduce a mechanical force that renders a microphone nonresponsive toaudio sounds in accordance with various embodiments.

The figures are not necessarily to scale. Like numbers used in thefigures refer to like components. However, it will be understood thatthe use of a number to refer to a component in a given figure is notintended to limit the component in another figure labeled with the samenumber.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying setof drawings that form a part of the description hereof and in which areshown by way of illustration several specific embodiments. It is to beunderstood that other embodiments are contemplated and may be madewithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Thefollowing detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in alimiting sense.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing feature sizes,amounts, and physical properties used in the specification and claimsare to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term“about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numericalparameters set forth in the foregoing specification and attached claimsare approximations that can vary depending upon the desired propertiessought to be obtained by those skilled in the art utilizing theteachings disclosed herein. The use of numerical ranges by endpointsincludes all numbers within that range (e.g. 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2,2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5) and any range within that range.

Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to an apparatus and methodfor rendering a microphone of an electronic device temporarilyunresponsive to voice sounds. Embodiments of the disclosure are directedto an apparatus and method for rendering a microphone of an electronicdevice temporarily unresponsive to voice sounds, during a time in whichthe electronic device is not being used for voice communications.Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to an apparatus and methodfor rendering a microphone of an electronic device unresponsive to voicesounds, and providing an auxiliary microphone to facilitate securedvoice communications during the time in which the microphone of theelectronic device is rendered unresponsive to voice sounds.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a microphone disruption apparatus for usewith an electronic device having a microphone in accordance with variousembodiments. The apparatus 101 illustrated in FIG. 1 is shown detachablycoupled to a hand-held electronic device 102, which includes a display104 and a microphone 106. The microphone 106 is illustrated as having adiaphragm 108 or other sensing element that is responsive to soundswaves, such as those associated with human voice sounds. The apparatus101 is coupled to the electronic device 102 so that at least a portionof the apparatus 101 is at or proximate to the microphone 106. Accordingto various embodiments, the apparatus 101 can be configured as a supportstructure 120, such as a sleeve, a band or a partial cover, that can bedetachably affixed to the housing of the electronic device 102.

The apparatus 101 includes a generator 122, which is supported by thesupport structure 120. The generator 122 is located on the supportstructure 120 such that the generator 122 is positioned adjacent themicrophone 106 of the electronic device 102 when the support structure120 is properly coupled to the device 102. According to variousembodiments, the generator 122 can be selectively activated anddeactivated by the user of the electronic device. For example, thegenerator 122 can be coupled to a switch that is supported by theapparatus 101 and actuatable by a user. Although not shown, thegenerator 122 incorporates or is coupled to a power source, such as abattery.

The generator 122 is configured to produce a force that acts on themicrophone 106 and renders the microphone 106 unresponsive to voicesounds. The force produced by the generator 122 provides for continuousdisruptive interference of microphone operation until the generator 122is deactivated. Upon deactivation of the generator 122, the microphone106 of the electronic device 102 returns to normal operation. In thisregard, the generator 122 delivers a nondestructive force thattemporarily renders the microphone 106 unusable for purposes oftransducing voice and other human perceivable acoustic information.

According to various embodiments, the generator 122 generates a forcethat acts on the diaphragm 108 of the microphone 106, and renders thediaphragm 108 unresponsive to voice sounds and other acousticinformation. The generator 122, according to some embodiments, generatesa force that causes clipping of the microphone 106. For example, thegenerator 122 may generate a force that causes repeated intermittentclipping of the microphone 106 at a rate that renders the microphoneunresponsive to voice sounds and other acoustic information. Thegenerator 122, for example, can generate a force that causes thediaphragm 108 to move to or near to a maximum excursion limit of thediaphragm 108. For example, the generator 122 can generate a force thatcauses the diaphragm 108 to move cyclically between opposing maximumexcursion limits of the diaphragm 108, making contact or near contactwith these excursion limits. In other embodiments, the generator 122generates a force that causes nonlinear distortion of the microphone'soutput signal. In some embodiments, the force generated by the generator122 is air pressure. In other embodiments, the force generated by thegenerator 122 is an electric force. In further embodiments, the forcegenerated by the generator 122 is mechanical vibration.

A microphone is considered unresponsive to voice sounds when itsdiaphragm or other input energy transducer is unable to transduce voicesounds and other audio source information into an electrical audiosignal from which the voice sounds and other audio source informationcan be faithfully reproduced. For example, a diaphragm of a microphoneis considered unresponsive to voice sounds when the diaphragm is unableto vibrate in a manner that corresponds to the voice sounds impinging onthe diaphragm due to presence of a disruptive force concurrently actingon the diaphragm. In this scenario, the microphone is unable to producean electrical audio signal from which the voice sounds impinging on thediaphragm can be faithfully reproduced. As such, a microphone disruptionapparatus and methodology of the present disclosure provides forcomplete privacy from surreptitious use of an electronic device'smicrophone(s) when such privacy is desired.

A representative condition in which the diaphragm of the microphone isunresponsive to voice sounds due to the presence of a disruptive forceacting thereon is referred to as clipping. As was previously discussed,clipping of a microphone occurs when the diaphragm is moved to or nearto a maximum excursion the limit of the diaphragm. During clipping,which can be continuous or intermittent at a sufficiently high rate, thediaphragm is unable to vibrate in response to voice sounds in a mannerwhich allows for faithful transducing (e.g., from acoustic energy toelectrical energy) and reproduction (from electrical energy to acousticenergy) of the voice sounds. Clipping is inherently non-linear so theduty cycle of the in-clipping state can be close to 100%. Theapplication of a dynamic continuous modulated force (e.g., pressuresignal) delivered directly to the microphone creates repeatedintermittent clipping at both poles of the microphone diaphragm motion.Although the diaphragm may be able to vibrate in response to somecomponents of voice sounds during clipping, reproduction of any suchcomponents will still result in an unintelligible output audio signal.

Turning now to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a microphone disruptionapparatus for use with an electronic device having a microphone inaccordance with other embodiments. The apparatus 201 shown in FIG. 2includes a support structure 220 configured to encompasses at least theperipheral side edges of the electronic device 202. According to someembodiments, the support structure 220 is implemented as a detachablecover arrangement that provides protection for the electronic device 202and houses components of the microphone disruption apparatus. In someimplementations, the support structure 220 is formed as a unitary cover,while in other implementations, the support structure 220 is amulti-piece (e.g., two piece) cover arrangement, such as a snap-fitcover arrangement.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the microphone disruption apparatus201 includes a multiplicity of generators 222, 232 configured todisruptively interfere with a multiplicity of microphones 206, 236 ofthe electronic device 202. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 2, theelectronic device 202 includes a lower microphone 206 and an uppermicrophone 238. Although two microphones are shown in FIG. 2, it isunderstood that the electronic device 220 may include three or moremicrophones, and that a generator can be provisioned for each of thesemicrophones. As will be described hereinbelow, a single generator can beconfigured to provide for disruptive interference for a multiplicity ofmicrophones. In general, all of the generators 222, 232 are typicallyenabled for operation at the same time (e.g., via a switch moved to anON position), and all of the generators 222, 232 are typically disabledfor operation at the same time (e.g., via the switch moved to an OFFposition).

FIG. 3 illustrates additional details of a microphone disruptionapparatus for use with an electronic device having a microphone inaccordance with various embodiments. The apparatus 301 includes asupport structure 320 configured to detachably couple to the housing ofthe electronic device 302. When the apparatus 301 is properly arrangedon the device 302, the generator 322 is positioned proximate the inletport 303 of the microphone 306. Alternatively, the generator 322 can bepositioned away from the microphone's inlet port 303, and fluidlycoupled to the microphone 306 via a coupling arrangement 325.

In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the inlet port 303 ofthe microphone 306 is located on the lower edge surface of the housingof the electronic device 302. The generator 322 is coupled to the inletport 303 of the microphone 306 via the coupling arrangement 325. Aswitch 323 allows a user to manually activate and deactivate thegenerator 322 as desired. In some implementations, the switch 323 islocated at the generator 322. In other implementations, the switch 323is located elsewhere on support structure 320.

According to embodiments that employ air pressure, the couplingarrangement 325 includes a plenum or channel 324 and an outlet port 326,which is configured to sealingly engage the housing surface of theelectronic device 302 proximate the inlet port 303 of the microphone306. According to embodiments that employ an electric field, thecoupling arrangement 325 includes an electrical element 326 couple tothe generator 322 via an electrical connection 324. According toembodiments that employ mechanical vibration, the coupling arrangement325 includes a mechanical vibrator 326 couple to the generator 322 viaan electrical or structural connection 324, depending on the particularvibrator design. As is shown in FIG. 3, the generator 322 produces aforce, F, that impinges the diaphragm 308 or other acoustic energysensing member of the microphone 306, thereby rendering the microphone306 unresponsive to voice sounds. It is understood that elementproviding the pressure, electrical or mechanical force on the microphoneis generally not in direct contact with the diaphragm of the microphone,and is typically located at or near the surface of an electronicdevice's housing separated by a small gap from the diaphragm.

FIG. 4 illustrates additional details of a microphone disruptionapparatus for use with an electronic device having a microphone inaccordance with other embodiments. The apparatus 401 includes a supportstructure 420 configured to detachably couple to the housing of theelectronic device 402. The support structure 420 may be a sleeve orpartial cover according to various embodiments, while in otherembodiments the support structure 420 can be a full cover. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 4, the support structure 420 supports agenerator 422 configured to disruptively interfere with a multiplicityof device microphones 406, 446 positioned on different surfaces of theelectronic device 402. In the representative example shown in FIG. 4,the electronic device 420 includes a lower microphone 406 having aninlet port 403 located on a lower edge surface of the device housing. Arear microphone 446 having an inlet port 443 is situated on a rearsurface of the housing of the device 402.

The generator 422 includes a first coupling arrangement 425 providedbetween the inlet port 403 of the lower microphone 406 and a first port421 of the generator 422. The generator 422 also includes a secondcoupling arrangement 435 provided between the inlet port 443 of the rearmicrophone 446 and a second port 431 of the generator 422. Whenactivated, such as by actuation of a switch 423, the generator 422causes a disruptive force to be delivered to the diaphragms 408, 448 ofthe lower and rear microphones 406, 446, respectively. The lower andrear microphones 406 and 446 return to normal operation upon thedeactivation of the generator 422, such as via actuation of the switch423.

FIG. 5 illustrates a microphone disruption apparatus for use with astationary electronic device having a microphone in accordance withother embodiments. The microphone disruption apparatus 520 can be of atype described herein, and can be activated by a user when privacy fromsurreptitious use of the microphone 506 is desired. The stationaryelectronic device 501 can take many forms, such as a desktop computer, adesktop telephone, or other type of relatively fixed electronicequipment that includes a microphone. According to the embodiment shownin FIG. 5, a microphone disruption apparatus 520 is positioned proximatea microphone 506 of a desktop telephone 501. The telephone 501 furtherincludes a display 504, a keypad 502, a handset cradle (not shown), anda handset 530.

The handset 530 includes a standard speaker 534 and a second microphonedisruption apparatus 540 positioned proximate the microphone 536 of thehandset 530. In some embodiments, the second microphone disruptionapparatus 540 is built into a mouthpiece cover that replaces theoriginal mouthpiece cover of the handset 530. In other embodiments, themicrophone disruption apparatus 540 is fixedly (e.g., adhesively)situated on the surface of the original mouthpiece cover of the handset530 proximate the microphone 536. A switch 532 is situated on thehandset 530 and can be manually actuated by the user to activate anddeactivate the microphone disruption apparatuses 520 and 540. In someimplementations, the switch 532 can be built into the microphonedisruption apparatus 540. In further implementations, the switched 532can be located on the housing of the desktop telephone 501.

Turning now to FIG. 6, there is illustrated various components of amicrophone disruption apparatus 602 in accordance with variousembodiments. The apparatus 602 includes a generator 622 coupled to apressure cell 624. The generator 622 receives a drive signal from adrive signal source 610. The pressure cell 624 is fluidly coupled to aplenum 632 (e.g., air channel) that extends between the pressure cell624 and a location proximate the microphone of the electronic device towhich the apparatus 602 is detachably affixed. A distal section of theplenum 632 includes an outlet port 634 which, when the apparatus 602 isproperly positioned on the electronic device, is located adjacent aninlet port of the microphone of the electronic device. In someembodiments, a seal member (not shown, but see seals 326 and 426 ofFIGS. 3 and 4, respectively) is disposed at the outlet port 634, whichprovides a fluidic seal between the plenum 632 and the inlet port of themicrophone. The seal member may be formed from a compliant (e.g., lowerdurometer) material, such as silicone rubber, closed-cell foam, or othertype of gasket.

FIG. 7 illustrates various components of a microphone disruptionapparatus 702 in accordance with other embodiments. The microphonedisruption apparatus 702 shown in FIG. 7 is configured to disrupt amultiplicity of microphones of an electronic device to which theapparatus 702 is detachably affixed. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7,the apparatus 702 includes a generator 722 configured to disrupt twomicrophones of an electronic device, it being understood that more thantwo microphones can be disrupted using a single generator. The apparatus702 includes a generator 722 coupled to a first pressure cell 724 and asecond pressure cell 746. The generator 722 receives a drive signal froma drive signal source 710. The first pressure cell 724 is fluidlycoupled to a first plenum 732 (e.g., air channel) that extends betweenthe first pressure cell 724 and a location proximate a first microphoneof the electronic device to which the apparatus 702 is detachablyaffixed. A distal portion of the first plenum 732 includes a firstoutlet port 734 which, when the apparatus 702 is properly positioned onthe electronic device, is located adjacent an inlet port of the firstmicrophone. The second pressure cell 746 is fluidly coupled to a secondplenum 742 (e.g., air channel) that extends between the second pressurecell 746 and a location proximate a second microphone of the electronicdevice to which the apparatus 702 is detachably affixed. A distalportion of the second plenum 742 includes a second outlet port 744which, when the apparatus 702 is properly positioned on the electronicdevice, is located adjacent an inlet port of the second microphone. Insome embodiments, a seal member (not shown) is disposed at one or bothof the outlet ports 734 and 744.

In some implementations, the first and second microphones of theelectronic device are disposed on different surfaces of the electronicdevice's housing, while in other implementations the first and secondmicrophones are disposed on a common surface of the housing. It can beappreciated that, depending on the locations of the microphones, theplenums 732 and 742 can be configured to provide an relatively airtightconduit between the first and second pressure cells 724, 746 and themicrophone locations, respectively. The plenums 732 and 742 can,therefore, be implemented to have a relatively complex three-dimensionalshape, examples of which will be described hereinbelow. As with othercomponents of the microphone disruption apparatus 702, the plenums 732and 742 are affixed to the support structure of the apparatus 702, whichmay be a cover or partial cover that can be detachably affixed to theelectronic device according to various embodiments.

FIG. 8 illustrates various details of a microphone disruption apparatus802 in accordance with various embodiments. The apparatus 802 shown inFIG. 8 is configured to disrupt a microphone of an electronic deviceusing air pressure. According to some embodiments, the apparatus 802includes a motor or generator in the form of a voice coil constructed bywinding fine magnet wire around a spool with a hollow core. Inside thecore is a strong permanent magnet, and a second non-magnetic part havingthe same geometry as the magnet. This half-magnetic, half non-magneticpiston arrangement produces good efficiency in converting electricalenergy into mechanical oscillating motion.

The apparatus 802 shown in FIG. 8 includes a generator 803 coupled to apressure cell 830 and a rebound cell 850. The generator 803 includes aspool 810 comprising a first flange 812, a second flange 814, and abobbin 816 extending between the first and second flanges 812 and 814.An electromagnet coil 818 is wound about the bobbin 816. Theelectromagnet coil 818 is coupled to a drive signal source 840. Thebobbin 816 comprises a central bore dimensioned to receive a piston 820.The piston 820 includes at least some magnetic material which interactswith the electromagnetic field produced by the electromagnet coil 818 inresponse to drive signals received from the drive signals source 840.The piston 820, in response to the drive signals, translates axially inan oscillatory manner and at a relatively high rate within the centralbore of the bobbin 816. During its axial excursions within the bobbin'scentral bore, the piston 820 extends beyond the first and second flanges812 and 814 of the spool 810 during each excursion cycle.

The pressure cell 830 includes an outlet 834 and an inlet dimensioned toreceive a first end of the piston 820. The pressure cell 830 supports acompliant membrane 832 which is subject to displacement in response toforcible contact with the piston 820. Repeated forced displacement ofthe complaint membrane 832 by the piston 820 causes displacement of airwithin the pressure cell 830 and production of a pressure wave. Thepressure wave produced by the generator 803 is directed out of thepressure cell 830 via outlet port 834. The outlet port 834 of thepressure cell 830 is fluidly coupled to a plenum or air channel thatextends between the microphone disruption apparatus 802 and a microphoneof an electronic device to which the apparatus 802 is detachablyaffixed. In some implementations, the outlet port 834 is located on asurface of the pressure cell 830 that is off-axis (e.g., by about 45° toabout 135°) relative to the axis of the piston 820. For example, theoutlet port 834 can be oriented about 90° from the axis of the piston820 (see, e.g., FIGS. 6 and 7). The off-axis orientation of the outletport 834 relative to the piston 820 allows for a more compact plenumlayout design in certain configurations. The pressure cell 830 alsoincludes a porthole 833 which allows for voice sounds to travel to thenative microphone of the electronic device when the generator 803 isinactive. The porthole 833 is covered when the generator 803 is active,such as by a flap that can be moved in and out of covered engagementwith the porthole 833. Such a movable flap can be actuated by, orintegral to, a switch that is actuated by the user when activating anddeactivating the apparatus 802.

The generator 803 may include a rebound cell 850 which includes an inletdimensioned to receive a second end of the piston 820 and a compliantmembrane 852 situated proximate this inlet. According to someembodiments, the compliant members 832 and 852 can be implemented as1/32″ thick, 10 A durometer silicone rubber membranes. In someembodiments, the rebound cell 850 may include a spring instead of, or inaddition to, the compliant membrane 852. Forcible contact between thesecond end of the piston 820 and the compliant membrane 852 results in arebound force that serves to redirect the piston 820 towards thepressure cell 830. It is noted that in some embodiments, a rebound cell830 is not needed, and that the electromagnetic interaction between theelectromagnet coil 818 and the magnetic material of the piston 820 issufficient to redirect the piston 820 towards the pressure cell 830 toachieve a desired cycling rate.

The drive signal produced by the drive signals source 840 can beselected to achieve a desired level of microphone disruption. Inaddition to disrupting microphone function, the drive signal can beselected to provide for a low level of noise produced by the generator803 during operation, so as to avoid disturbing the user of theelectronic device. In some embodiments, the drive signals source 840 canproduce a low frequency sine wave (e.g., from about 50-150 Hz, such asabout 100 Hz). A low frequency sine wave has been shown to create verylittle mechanical noise that can be perceived by the user, while stillcausing microphone clipping to occur sufficiently fast so as to obscureaudio frequency information. The drive signal source 840 can generateother waveforms, such as white, brown or pink noise, low-pass filterednoise, or more complex audio signals, such as music or speech that canalso be used to clip the microphone and mask private information. Insome embodiments, the drive signal source 840 can be configured toproduce a signal containing significant high harmonics that can generatemechanical vibrations that couple into the housing of the electronicdevice, and ultimately produce undesirable audible noise at themicrophone. In other embodiments, the apparatus 802 can include anauxiliary microphone (see, e.g., FIGS. 16 and 17) that receives a user'svoice sounds. A processor, coupled to the auxiliary microphone, can beconfigured to invert the audio signal generated from the received user'svoice sounds. The drive signal source 840 can drive the generator 803using at least the inverted audio signal as a drive signal. Thisapproach can provide for both microphone clipping and cancelation of anyuser voice sounds picked up by the native microphone of the electronicdevice.

FIG. 9 illustrates various details of a microphone disruption apparatus902 in accordance with various embodiments. The apparatus 902 shown inFIG. 9 is configured to disrupt two microphones of an electronic deviceusing air pressure produced by a single generator 903. The generator 903is coupled to a first pressure cell 830 and a second pressure cell 950.The generator 903 includes a spool 910 comprising a first flange 912, asecond flange 914, and a bobbin 916 having an axial bore extendingbetween the first and second flanges 912 and 914. An electromagnet coil918 is wound about the bobbin 916, and is coupled to a drive signalsource 940. A piston 920, which includes at least some magneticmaterial, interacts with the electromagnetic field produced by theelectromagnet coil 918 in response to drive signals received from thedrive signals source 940. The piston 920, in response to the drivesignals, translates axially in an oscillatory manner and at a relativelyhigh rate within the central bore of the bobbin 916, extending beyondthe first and second flanges 912 and 914 of the spool 910 during eachexcursion cycle.

The first pressure cell 930 includes an outlet 934 and an inletdimensioned to receive a first end of the piston 920. The first pressurecell 930 supports a compliant membrane 932 which is subject todisplacement in response to forcible contact with the first end of thepiston 920. Repeated forced displacement of the complaint membrane 932by the piston 920 causes displacement of air within the first pressurecell 930 and production of a pressure wave, which is communicated out ofan outlet port 934 of the first pressure cell 930. The outlet port 934is fluidly coupled to a plenum or air channel that extends between themicrophone disruption apparatus 902 and a first microphone of anelectronic device to which the apparatus 902 is detachably affixed.

The second pressure cell 950 includes an outlet 954 and an inletdimensioned to receive a second end of the piston 920. The secondpressure cell 950 supports a compliant membrane 952 which is subject todisplacement in response to forcible contact with the second end of thepiston 920. Repeated forced displacement of the complaint membrane 952by the piston 920 causes displacement of air within the second pressurecell 930 and production of a pressure wave, which is communicated out ofan outlet port 954 of the second pressure cell 950. The outlet port 954is fluidly coupled to a second plenum or air channel that extendsbetween the microphone disruption apparatus 902 and a second microphoneof an electronic device to which the apparatus 902 is detachablyaffixed. In some implementations, one or both of the outlet ports 934and 954 can be located on a surface of their respective pressure cell930 and 950 that is off-axis (e.g., by about 45° to about 135°, such as90°) relative to the axis of the piston 920. The pressure cells 930 and950 each include a porthole 933 and 953 which allows for voice sounds totravel to respective native microphones of the electronic device whenthe generator 903 is inactive. As discussed previously, the portholes933 and 953 are covered during operation of the generator 903.

According to some embodiments, the housing of the generator and thepressure/rebound cells can be fashioned out of mu-metal for magneticshielding of the motor magnet. In some embodiments, the spool of thegenerator can be made of Delrin plastic, which has good inherentlubricity and other physical properties.

FIGS. 10-12 illustrate various configurations of a piston that can beused in a generator of a microphone disruption apparatus in accordancewith various embodiments. The piston 1020 shown in FIG. 10 includes afirst section 1022 and a second section 1024. The second section 1024includes permanent magnetic material, such as Neodymium/Iron/Boron(NdFeB). The first section 1022 comprises nonmagnetic material, such asplastic or rubber. When installed within the central bore of the bobbinof a generator, such as those shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the piston 1020 ispositioned within the central bore such that the second section 1024containing permanent magnetic material is near the center of theelectromagnet coil and the first section 1022 is near the flangeadjacent the compliant membrane of the pressure cell.

FIG. 11 shows a double-ended piston 1120 which includes a first section1122, a second section 1124, and a third section 1126. Each of the firstand third sections 1122 and 1126 comprise permanent magnetic material,while the intervening second section 1124 comprises a non-magneticmaterial, such as plastic or rubber. Provision of magnetic material atopposing and sections of the piston 1120 shown in FIG. 11 provides forenhanced electromagnetic interaction between the piston 1120 and theelectromagnet coil of the generator. For example, the displacement rateof, and impact force created by, the double-ended piston 1120 can beincreased relative to a single-ended piston, such as that shown in FIG.10.

FIGS. 12A-12C show different configurations of a two-piece piston of apressure generator in accordance with various embodiments. FIG. 12Aillustrates a piston 1220A comprising a first magnetic section 1222 anda second magnetic section 1224. In the configuration shown in FIG. 12A,the two magnetic sections 1222 and 1224 are separated by space (e.g., avoid or an air gap), such that no intervening structure or materialconnects the two magnetic sections 1222 and 1224. The two magneticsections 1222 and 1224 are positioned with like poles oriented towardseach other, in a magnetically repelling relationship. The relativeposition and movement of the two magnetic sections 1222 and 1224 ismoderated by the electromagnetic field created by the electromagnet coilof the generator.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12B, a piston 1220B comprises a firstmagnetic section 1222, a second magnetic section 1224, and a bindingmaterial or layer 1236 that mechanically connects the first and secondmagnetic sections 1222, 1224. The binding material or layer 1236 may bean adhesive, glue, or other binding material. The two magnetic sections1222 and 1224 are positioned with like poles oriented towards eachother, in a magnetically repelling relationship. In the embodimentsillustrated in FIG. 12C, a piston 1220C comprises a first magneticsection 1222 and a second magnetic section 1224 disposed in athin-walled sleeve or sheath 1232. End caps 1234 can be included toenclose the first and second magnetic sections 1222, 1224 within thesheath 1232. The two magnetic sections 1222 and 1224 are positioned withlike poles oriented towards each other, in a magnetically repellingrelationship. In some configurations, a binding material or layer can beused to mechanically connect the first and second magnetic sections1222, 1224 (see, e.g., material 1236 of FIG. 12B).

FIG. 13A illustrates a plenum 1341 configured to fluidly couple amicrophone disruption apparatus to a microphone of an electronic devicein accordance with various embodiments. The plenum 1341 is configured toprovide fluidic coupling between an air pressure generator 1322 and amicrophone disposed at or just below a surface of the device housing.For example, the microphone may be disposed on a front major surface ofthe device housing near the upper edge surface of the device housing.The plenum 1341 shown in FIG. 13A includes a void or channel 1343 thatextends between the generator 1322 and an outlet port 1346, and can bepressurized by the generator 1322. The outlet port 1346 is configured togenerally conform to the shape of the microphone's inlet port. Theoutlet port 1346 may include a seal or gasket to enhance fluidiccoupling with the microphone.

FIG. 13B illustrates a manifold 1350 comprising a multiplicity ofplenums configured to fluidly couple an air pressure generator 1352 to amultiplicity of electronic device microphones in accordance with variousembodiments. The manifold 1350 includes a first plenum 1364 and a secondplenum 1371. The first and second plenums 1364 and 1371 each define avoid or channel 1353, 1373 in the manifold material, which can bepressurized by an individual or a common generator of a type previouslydescribed. The first plenum 1364 provides fluidic coupling between thegenerator 1352 and a first microphone of the electronic device. Thefirst plenum 1364 is shown to include an outlet port 1366 which has ashape similar to that of the inlet port of a first microphone of theelectronic device (which may be on a front surface of the electronicdevice housing). The outlet port 1366 may further include a sealarrangement to provide enhanced fluidic coupling between the plenum 1364and the inlet port of the first microphone. The second plenum 1371 isshown to include an outlet port 1376 which has a shape similar to thatof the inlet port of a second microphone of the electronic device (whichmay be provided on a different surface of the electronic device housing,such as a rear surface). The outlet port 1376 may further include a sealarrangement to provide enhanced fluidic coupling between the secondplenum 1371 and the inlet port of the second microphone.

In the representative embodiment shown in FIG. 13B, a common generator1352 is configured to fluidly couple to the first and second plenums1364 and 1371. In some embodiments, the first and second plenums 1364and 1371 can be fluidly independent of each other, such that each iscoupled to a different generator.

FIG. 14 is an side view of a manifold 1403 comprising a multiplicity ofplenums configured to fluidly couple an air pressure generator 1422 to amultiplicity of electronic device microphones in accordance with variousembodiments. FIG. 14 demonstrates that a microphone disruption apparatusaccording to various embodiments can employ plenums having fairlycomplex configurations depending on the positioning of one or moremicrophones of an electronic device to which the apparatus is detachablyaffixed. The manifold 1403 and generator 1422 are shown mounted within acover 1420 which is configured to be detachable affixed to an electronicdevice 1402 having a first microphone 1446 and a second microphone 1456.The manifold 1403 includes a first plenum 1421 and a second plenum 1431.The first and second plenums 1421 and 1431 each define a void or channel1424, 1434 in the manifold material, which can be pressurized by anindividual or a common generator (e.g., generator 1422) of a typepreviously described. The first plenum 1424 provides fluidic couplingbetween the generator 1422 and the first microphone 1446 of theelectronic device 1402. The first plenum 1421 is shown to include anoutlet port 1443 which has a shape similar to that of the inlet port ofa first microphone 1446 (which may be on a front surface of theelectronic device housing). The outlet port 1443 may further include aseal arrangement 1447 to provide enhanced fluidic coupling between theplenum 1421 and the inlet port of the first microphone 1446. The secondplenum 1431 is shown to include an outlet port 1466 which has a shapesimilar to that of the inlet port of a second microphone 1456 (which maybe provided on a different surface of the electronic device housing,such as a rear surface). The outlet port 1466 may further include a sealarrangement 1467 to provide enhanced fluidic coupling between the secondplenum 1431 and the inlet port of the second microphone 1456.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional illustration showing a vibration isolationarrangement for a microphone disruption apparatus 1520 in accordancewith various embodiments. In the representative example shown in FIG.15, a generator 1522 is supported by a substrate 1526 and a vibrationabsorption element 1524 is disposed between the generator 1522 and thesubstrate 1526. The vibration absorption element 1524 is formed from amaterial that can dampen mechanical vibrations produced by the generator1522, such as silicone rubber.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional illustration showing a vibration isolationarrangement for a microphone disruption apparatus 1620 in accordancewith various embodiments. In the representative example shown in FIG.16, a generator 1622 is supported by a substrate 1626 and a vibrationabsorption element 1624 is disposed between the generator 1622 and thesubstrate 1626. According to some embodiments, the microphone disruptionapparatus 1620 can incorporate an auxiliary microphone 1632 which can beused to facilitate secured conversations when the microphone(s) of theelectronic device is/are being disrupted by the microphone disruptionapparatus 1620. In such embodiments, the auxiliary microphone 1632 canbe communicatively coupled to an auxiliary processor (also supported bythe cover, sleeve or band) configured to encrypt the audio signalsreceived from the auxiliary microphone 1632. The encrypted audio signalscan then be transmitted from the auxiliary processor to the electronicdevice's communication circuitry for transmission through the device'snormal communication link (and then decrypted on the receiving end). Inaddition to use of vibration absorption element 1624 for the generator1622, an additional vibration absorption element 1634 can be used todampen vibration between the auxiliary microphone 1632 and the substrate1626 and/or generator 1622.

As illustrated, the auxiliary microphone 1632 is mounted on a lowersurface of the substrate 1626, while the generator 1622 is mounted on anupper surface of the substrate 1626. In such implementations, a whole orvoid 1627 is provided in the substrate 1626 to allow sound to impingethe auxiliary microphone 1632. It is understood that in someembodiments, the auxiliary microphone 1632 and vibration absorptionelement 1634 can be mounted on the same surface as that supporting thegenerator 1622.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional illustration showing a noise cancellationarrangement for a microphone disruption apparatus 1720 in accordancewith various embodiments. In this illustrative example, an auxiliarymicrophone 1742 is used to facilitate secured conversations when themicrophone or microphones of the electronic device are being disruptedby the microphone disruption apparatus 1720. The noise cancellationarrangement shown in FIG. 17 includes a generator 1770 situated on afirst surface of a substrate 1726. A second microphone 1732 and theauxiliary microphone 1742 are mounted on an opposing surface of thesubstrate 1726. A processor 1730 is coupled to the two microphones 1732in 1742. A void or hole 1727 is provided in the substrate 1726 to allowexternally produced sound (e.g., voice sounds from a user) to reach theauxiliary microphone 1742.

The second microphone 1732 is configured to pick up noise created by thegenerator 1722 during operation. The second microphone 1732 is isolatedfrom receiving externally produced sound (e.g., voice sounds from auser). In some implementations, the auxiliary microphone 1742 is mountedon vibration absorption material (not shown). Enhanced noise reductioncan be achieved by canceling generator noise that may be detected by theauxiliary microphone 1742 using an audio signal produced by the secondmicrophone 1732. For example, an audio signal produced by the secondmicrophone 1732 (and containing generator noise) can be inverted by theprocessor 1730 and summed with an audio signal produced by the auxiliarymicrophone 1742 to cancel the generator noise using known techniques.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing various components of a microphonedisruption apparatus in accordance with some embodiments. The microphonedisruption apparatus shown in FIG. 18 includes a generator 1822, whichcan be a pressure, electric or mechanical force generator for example.The generator 1822 is coupled to one or more force delivery sections orelements 1824, 1836. Examples of force delivery sections or elements1824, 1836 include a pressure outlet port, a vibration element or anelectrical element (e.g., a charge plate). The generator 1822 and/or oneor more of the force delivery sections or elements 1824, 1836 arecoupled to a power source 1820, such as a battery. A switch 1830 iscoupled to the generator 1822 and power source 1820, providing forselective activation and deactivation of the microphone disruptionapparatus.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing various components of a microphonedisruption apparatus in accordance with other embodiments. Themicrophone disruption apparatus shown in FIG. 18 includes a multiplicityof generators 1922, 1932, which can be a pressure, electric ormechanical force generator for example (e.g., the same type or differenttypes). The generators 1922, 1932 are coupled to respective forcedelivery sections or elements 1924, 1934 (e.g., a pressure outlet port,a vibration element or an electrical element). The generators 1922, 1932and/or one or more of the force delivery sections or elements 1924, 1934are coupled to a power source 1920, such as a battery. A switch 1930 iscoupled to the generators 1922, 1932 and power source 1920, providingfor selective activation and deactivation of the microphone disruptionapparatus.

FIG. 20 illustrates a microphone disruption apparatus configured toproduce an electric force that renders a microphone nonresponsive toaudio sounds in accordance with various embodiments. The apparatus shownin FIG. 20 includes a generator 2022 electrically coupled to a pair ofconducting plates 2024 and 2026 positioned relative to a microphone 2006of an electronic device 2002. As illustrated, the conducting plates 2024and 2026 are positioned so that the microphone 2006 is located betweenthe conducting plates 2024 and 2026. The generator 2022 provides avoltage drive signal to the conducting plates 2024 and 2026. In responseto the voltage drive signal, an alternating electric charge is developedon the conducting plates, causing an electric force to interfere withthe charged diaphragm in the microphone (e.g., in an electret condensermicrophone).

FIG. 21 illustrates a microphone disruption apparatus configured toproduce a mechanical force that renders a microphone nonresponsive toaudio sounds in accordance with various embodiments. The apparatus shownin FIG. 21 includes a generator 2122 electrically coupled to a vibrator2124 positioned relative to a microphone 2006 of an electronic device2002. The generator 2122 provides a voltage drive signal to the vibrator2124, causing the vibrator 2124 to deliver a complex mechanicalvibration to the housing of the electronic device 2102, that couplesthrough to the microphone 2106.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and describedherein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the artthat a variety of alternate and/or equivalent implementations can besubstituted for the specific embodiments shown and described withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure. This application isintended to cover any adaptations or variations of the specificembodiments discussed herein. Therefore, it is intended that thisdisclosure be limited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for use with an electronic devicehaving a microphone, the apparatus comprising: a structure configured todetachably couple to the device; and a generator supported by thestructure and fluidly coupled to the microphone, the generatorconfigured to generate air pressure that acts on a diaphragm of themicrophone and renders the microphone unresponsive to voice sounds. 2.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the air pressure generated by thegenerator causes clipping of the microphone.
 3. The apparatus of claim1, wherein: the diaphragm has an excursion limit; and the air pressuregenerated by the generator causes the diaphragm to move to or near theexcursion limit.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the generator isconfigured to generate a varying air pressure wave.
 5. The apparatus ofclaim 4, wherein the generator is configured to receive a sine wave as adrive signal and generate the varying air pressure wave in response tothe drive signal.
 6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the generator isconfigured to receive a voice signal, a structured noise signal or amusic signal as a drive signal and generate the varying air pressurewave in response to the drive signal.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the generator comprises a linear motor and a pressure cell. 8.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the generator comprises: a spoolhaving a bore; an electromagnet coil wound around the spool; a pistoncomprising a permanent magnet, the piston configured to move axiallywithin the bore of the spool in response to a drive signal applied tothe coil; and a pressure cell comprising a compliant membrane and anoutlet port, the membrane subject to displacement in response toforcible contact with the piston, thereby generating an air pressurewave.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the piston comprises a firstportion comprising the permanent magnet and a second portion comprisingnon-magnetic material.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprisinga plenum supported by the structure and comprising an inlet port and anoutlet port, the inlet port of the plenum configured to fluidly coupleto the generator and the outlet port configured to fluidly couple to themicrophone.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the generatorcomprises a MEMS device, a vibrator, an electrostatic motor, a rotarymotor, a vane pump, a ducted fan blower or a direct piston pump.
 12. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the generator comprises a first end and asecond end, and further comprises: a first pressure cell adjacent thefirst end and configured to generate air pressure that acts on adiaphragm of a first microphone and renders the first microphoneunresponsive to voice sounds; and a second pressure cell adjacent thesecond end and configured to generate air pressure that acts on adiaphragm of a second microphone and renders the second microphoneunresponsive to voice sounds.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising: a first auxiliary microphone supported by the structure andconfigured to receive voice sounds during a time in which the generatoris active and the microphone of the device is rendered unresponsive tovoice sounds.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprisingvibration absorbing material disposed between the generator and one orboth of the first auxiliary microphone and a portion of the structure towhich the generator is mounted.
 15. The apparatus of claim 13, furthercomprising: a second auxiliary microphone supported by the structure,the second auxiliary microphone responsive to mechanical noise resultingfrom operation of the generator and substantially unresponsive to thevoice sounds received by the microphone of the electronic device;wherein a signal produced by the second auxiliary microphone can be usedto cancel the mechanical noise from a signal produced by the firstauxiliary microphone.
 16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thestructure comprises a cover or a sleeve configured to detachably coupleto the device.
 17. An apparatus for use with an electronic device havinga microphone, the apparatus comprising: a structure configured todetachably couple to the device; and a generator supported by thestructure, the generator configured to generate a force that acts on themicrophone and renders the microphone unresponsive to voice sounds. 18.The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the generator is configured to renderunresponsive to voice sounds the microphone selected from the groupconsisting of a dynamic microphone, a condenser microphone, an electretmicrophone, a ribbon microphone, a piezoelectric microphone, a fiberoptic microphone, and a MEMS microphone.
 19. The apparatus of claim 17,wherein the generator comprises a MEMS device, a vibrator, anelectrostatic motor, a rotary motor, a vane pump, a ducted fan blower ora direct piston pump.
 20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein thegenerator is configured to generator a pressure force, an electric forceor a mechanical force.
 21. A method involving a microphone of anelectronic device, the method comprising: generating, at a cover or asleeve detachably coupled to an external surface of the device, a forcethat is directed at the microphone; and rendering the microphoneunresponsive to voice sounds by the force acting on the microphone. 22.The method of claim 21, wherein the force is air pressure.
 23. Themethod of claim 21, wherein the force is mechanical vibration.
 24. Themethod of claim 21, wherein the force is an electric force.